On January 18th, the Senate passed an ethics bill (S. 1) to reform lobbying and earmark practices. Although the House-adopted a similar package on January 5, it was approved as part of the House rules changes and did not need legislative authorization. Therefore, in order for the Senate changes to take effect, S. 1 will need to go to conference with similar House legislation. It is unclear when, and if, the House will consider a legislative reform package.
Nevertheless, it is clear that the new House rules significantly restrict staff and Members from participating in certain travel, and prohibits the participation and involvement of lobbyists, and organizations that employ them, in congressional staff trips. Therefore, NEPPA may not be able to host a 2007 Congressional Staff tour to educate staff on issues and concerns to public power. Morgan Meguire is still analyzing the new rules, however, as legal guidance continues to emerge.